New to Implants? Here’s What to Expect When Rebuilding Your Smile

If you’re missing one or more teeth, dental implants are one of the most reliable and natural-looking ways to restore your smile. At Advance Dental Arts Center, we’ve helped countless patients rebuild confidence and function through dental implants in West Linn. Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or ready to move forward, knowing what to expect can make the process feel much more comfortable.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small, titanium posts that act as artificial tooth roots, providing a stable foundation for replacement teeth such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Surgically placed into the jawbone, these posts fuse with the bone through a natural process called osseointegration, ensuring long-term stability and strength.

Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth - allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. For patients seeking a permanent and natural-looking tooth replacement, dental implants offer an advanced, reliable solution guided by your trusted dentist in West Linn.

The Initial Consultation

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. During this appointment, your dentist in West Linn will perform a thorough examination, review your medical history, and take digital X-rays or 3D scans of your mouth. This step helps determine whether your jawbone is strong enough to support an implant or if additional procedures, such as bone grafting, are needed. We’ll also discuss your goals, answer any questions, and create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and lifestyle.

Implant Placement

Once your treatment plan is in place, the implant procedure begins. A small titanium post is surgically placed into your jawbone, acting as a replacement for your natural tooth root. This biocompatible material integrates with your bone over the next few months in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong and stable foundation for your new tooth. While healing takes time, many patients are surprised at how comfortable the process feels, especially with modern anesthesia and sedation options.

Healing and Restoration

After the implant fuses with your jawbone, an abutment is attached to connect the implant to your custom dental crown. Your dentist in West Linn will then create a crown that perfectly matches the color, shape, and size of your surrounding teeth - ensuring your smile looks and feels completely natural. The final result is a durable, long-lasting restoration that allows you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence again.

Caring for Your New Smile

Dental implants are designed to last for decades with proper care. You can maintain them just like your natural teeth - by brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly. Avoiding tobacco and practicing good oral hygiene will help protect your investment and keep your gums healthy.

Transform Your Smile with Trusted Dental Implant Experts

Choosing to rebuild your smile with dental implants is an investment in your health, confidence, and quality of life. Our doctors is here to guide you through every step of the process with compassion and expertise.

If you’re ready to explore dental implants, schedule a consultation with Advance Dental Arts Center to restore your smile and rediscover your confidence. Call us today at (503) 655-9300 or request an appointment online for an appointment.